Habitat
High-elevation `ohi`a and koa-`ohi`a forest, but the latter is mainly distributed in the Koke`e region, the Alaka`i stronghold is at 1,000 - 1,600 m, but perhaps it may not occur above 1,500 m.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 780 - 1,840 (2010) and decreasing.
Status CR
Habitat destruction and degradation through clearance for timber and conversion to agriculture, feral live-stock, are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Song is a short, descending trill. Call is a simple 'weet'. Juveniles following adults utter a stuttering series of short notes 'chit-chit, chi-chi-chit, chit'.
Akikiki (Oreomystis bairdi) [XC805484]
by Lucas Lombardo from Kauai County, Hawaii, United States (?)
Akikiki (Oreomystis bairdi) [XC819421]
by Patrick Blake from Alaka'i Wilderness Preserve, Halepa'akai Stream, Kauai, Hawaii, United States (call)
Subspecies
Long combined with the Paroreomyza species and Manucerthia mana as a single species, under the name Loxops maculatus or Paroreomyza maculata.
No subspecies.
Similar Species
Female Kaua'i Oahu Nukupuu (Hemignathus lucidus), subspecies hanapepe, is greener above with yellow tinges around face. Hawaii Elepaio (Chasiempis sandwichensis) has white rump, tail tip, and wing spots.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet